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What We’re Watching: 7/3/13

At the end of each week, we post a "What We’re Watching" blog as we look ahead to the weekend and recap events from the week. We encourage you to share it with your friends and family, and have a safe weekend.

Photos of the Week

To kick things off, here are a few of my favorite photos from the week. For more photos, visit the FEMA Photo Library.

Anchorage, Alaska, July 1, 2013 -- Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano discusses the past, present and future direction of the Agency during a town hall meeting with DHS staff. The Department of Homeland Security has a vital mission: to secure the nation from the many threats we face, which requires the dedication of more than 240,000 employees in jobs that range from aviation and border security to emergency response, from cyber-security analyst to chemical facility inspector.

New Orleans, La., July 1, 2013 -- FEMA joins state and local officials along with members of the community to cut the ribbon at a newly rebuilt St. Roch Park and Playground. The facilities were devastated by Hurricane Katrina's winds and floodwaters. FEMA provided nearly $700,000 to the city of New Orleans for repairs of the park, pool and neutral ground lighting.

Galena, Alaska, June 30, 2013 -- FEMA specialists provide recovery information to disaster survivors on the available programs at this Disaster Recovery Center. President Obama issued a major disaster declaration for the State of Alaska triggering the release of Federal funds to help people and communities recover from flooding that occurred from May 17 to June 11, 2013.

Celebrating the Fourth Safely

With the celebration of our country’s Independence tomorrow, I wanted to take some time to remind folks that while this holiday is indeed a joyous occasion often marked with grilling, picnics, and of course fireworks -- it’s important that we all take precautions to stay safe. However you plan to celebrate tomorrow, here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:

Propane and charcoal grills must only be used outdoors. Using them indoors or in any enclosed spaces (such as tents), poses a fire hazard and a risk of exposing occupants to deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.

Young children are at high risk of being burned by hot food and liquids. Keep children away from cooking areas by enforcing a "kid-free zone" of 3 feet around the grill.

Place the grill a safe distance from lawn games, play areas, and foot traffic. Grills should be positioned at least 10 feet away from siding, deck railing, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

Never leave a grill unattended.

Keep matches, lighters, charcoal, and starter fluid out of the reach of children in a locked drawer or cabinet.

Following these tips can help ensure your Fourth of July is safe and enjoyable!

FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

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